CLAYTON – The Clayton Center presents “The Songs are Free: Celebrating Women’s History,” starring North Carolina gospel singer, historian, and educator Mary D. Williams, on Sunday, April 21, at 3:00pm. The show, which honors Black Women’s History Month, begins at 3:00pm.
With a voice best described as “reminiscent of Mahalia Jackson,” Williams’ stage presence commands attention. The Garner native, who grew up spending summers with her grandparents in Smithfield, captures the hearts and minds of audiences across the state and region who have witnessed her chronicle the history of the Civil Rights movement through song.
Known as a “powerhouse psalmist,” Williams has been ministering solo at local churches, festivals and various events for many years, developing a strong following from performances with such artists as Bobby Jones, Sister Cantaloupe, Lee Williams & the Spiritual QC’s, Luther Barnes, Keith “Wonder Boy” Johnson, as well as appearances on the Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN).
Other performances include ministering at the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. in Washington, DC; Walnut Creek Amphitheater; Duke University Chapel; and the Bobby Jones Gospel Recording Retreat in Las Vegas and has traveled with Duke Divinity Professor Dr. Timothy Tyson and the United Methodist Western Conference. She received Female Vocalist of the Year at the NC Gospel Announcers Guild’s Prestige Awards ceremony.
Tickets to the show are $7, plus taxes and fees, and are available through the box office at 919-553-1737 or online at theclaytoncenter.com.
For more information about the July 28 show, visit theclaytoncenter.com or call The Clayton Center box office at 919-553-1737, Monday through Friday, noon to 5:00pm. The Clayton Center auditorium is located at 111 E. Second St., in downtown Clayton.
